Opal22 Announces Black History Month 2025: A City-Wide Celebration of Heritage, Creativity & Community
This October, Opal22 Arts & Edutainment unveils its annual Black History Month programme: a month-long programme of events designed to celebrate Black British history, stories and identity across Leicester. From academic debate and immersive theatre to children’s workshops and historical trails, the 2025 programme promises something for everyone.
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“Stories give history its power,” says Tara, CEO at Opal22. “This October, our events invite everyone to reflect on and celebrate the creativity, resilience, and voices that make our shared history meaningful.”
HIGHLIGHTS OF THE PROGRAMME
Opal22 envisions a Britain where Black British history is integrated into the broader national story. Not as an add-on, but as an essential thread. This year’s Black History Month offers a wide array of accessible events for all ages to stay engaged this October.
Britain Rewritten: Discuss, Decode, Decolonise
16 October | Brookfield, University of Leicester
Leading Black cultural thinkers, Emma Dabiri and Professor Robert Beckford lead an evening of talks, panels, and interactive engagement exploring how Britain’s archives and museums have historically silenced Black voices and how communities can reclaim them. Perfect for historians, cultural thinkers, students, and curious minds alike.
The Black Star Mystery
31 October | Departing from Great Central Railway, Loughborough
A one of a kind murder mystery aboard the historic Great Central Railway steam train. Guests enjoy three-course of fine dining while unravelling a suspense-filled story featuring characters inspired by Black British changemakers. A perfect excuse to dress up for a night of elegance, intrigue, and celebration.
Opal22 is teaming up with Highcross Leicester to bring history to life in the heart of the city with a programme of free events and pop ups.
1 October – Black History Month Launch
Opal22 launches Black History Month at Highcross Shopping Centre with poetry and dance celebrating Black British stories. Performances will bring the city to life. Follow us on Instagram for times and locations.
6-10 October – FlashBlack Podcast Booth: Voices that Raised a City
A pop-up listening lounge featuring Leicester’s Black elders, whose stories of resilience and creativity built spaces of belonging across the city. Episodes released weekly on YouTube and podcast platforms.
All October – Children’s Historical Trail
A self-guided trail celebrating Black British figures. Solve puzzles, follow clues, and uncover stories to win fun prizes! Starter packs available from the Highcross information desk from October 1st.
23 October – Pick Your Nose! Creative Identity Workshop
In this fun, hands-on clay workshop, children explore how facial features reflect race, culture, and identity while creating their own sculptures. This is a perfect choice for the October school break and a memorable way to combine art and learning.
GET INVOLVED
Most events are free and open to the public. Families, schools, creatives, and community members are encouraged to take part, share experiences, and spread the word.
Follow @opal22artsanded on Instagram
Visit www.opal22.co.uk for full listings and bookings
